United States: Planning to Succeed: Eight Steps Developers Can Follow To Minimize Public Opposition To New Projects

Even though many in the community recognize that growth and development is good for a community, the "not in my backyard" attitude is alive and well throughout the United States. For example, efforts to bring additional utilities, retail establishments and even residential developments can face stiff and very costly opposition by local landowners and residents living near proposed project sites.

In the past, much of this organized resistance was nothing more than a nuisance to company personnel, but increasingly it has the potential to threaten a project's very viability. Today's opposition knows the environmental and political landscape well enough to delay and stymie a project until the costs to proceed eventually outweigh the financial benefits.

While opposition can be minimized, it is doubtful that it can be avoided altogether. Fortunately, by taking a few simple steps at a project's outset, developers can save much time, money and frustration in the long run. And while these simple steps may seem obvious to the battle weary among us, everyone can benefit from a reminder of their importance.

The most important step in project planning and siting is to speak with local elected officials about the project before it is publicly announced. Elected officials, like most of us, do not like surprises. They want to appear knowledgeable and well informed to the people they represent.

2. Talk with state and federal regulatory agencies.

If your project requires any regulatory approval, discuss the project with state and federal regulatory agencies so that you can hear and respond to their initial concerns before the project becomes public.

3. Focus on the benefits of the project to the local community.

Identify and articulate the local benefits of the project. Advertise these advantages to the local officials and concerned citizens.

4. Talk to the media - day or night.

As we all know, the media shapes how an issue is viewed. Therefore, talk with local media outlets about your project before it starts, making sure they understand all the benefits that will result and how the company is responding to any concerns that have arisen.

5. Say what you will do. Do what you say.

The importance of this tip cannot be overstated. All good companies try to follow this principle. You must develop trust. If the local community trusts you, your project will be completed sooner and in a less costly manner.

6. Correct mistakes quickly.

Do not hide your mistakes. Address them directly.

7. Discuss the unpleasant issues.

Construction is messy. Workers leave trash on the work site. Property boundaries may be unclear. Address these issues with concerned citizens and tell them the steps your company will take to minimize the unpleasantness. Show the landowners examples of good results from past projects.

8. Be a good neighbor.

Your company and the local citizens will be neighbors for a long time. Treat these neighbors with respect and kindness just as you would the neighbor next door to your home. Participate in community activities. Let the community know you will be a good corporate citizen for years to come.

Certainly, this eight-step plan takes significant time and effort to implement. However, the hard work and sustained effort will pay off--both to the company's bottom line and to the peace of mind of the personnel on the ground. Most important, following this plan can reduce significantly the likelihood that your project fails as a result of public opposition.